Houseplants can brighten a room, improve air quality and even lift your mood. But for some people, certain varieties can cause itchy eyes, sneezing or skin irritation. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, asthma or other sensitivities, it’s worth knowing which plants could be to blame before filling your home with greenery.
While pollen is the usual suspect, indoor plants can also cause problems through mould in their soil, airborne spores, dust-trapping foliage or irritating sap. Here are some common houseplants that may trigger allergy flare-ups – and the safer options to try instead.
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Weeping fig
A striking evergreen with glossy leaves, the weeping fig can add instant tropical style to your home. However, it produces a latex sap that may cause skin irritation or respiratory reactions in sensitive individuals. Those with latex allergies should be especially cautious.
Boston fern
Known for its soft, feathery fronds, the Boston fern releases spores rather than pollen, which can aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions. In some cases, contact with the leaves can also cause itching or redness.
Hoya
Often called the wax plant, hoya is loved for its perfumed blooms and trailing vines. Unfortunately, its pollen can cause runny noses, watery eyes and sneezing in those prone to hay fever, particularly people with asthma.
Peace lily
Low-maintenance and air-purifying, the peace lily is a popular indoor choice. But it produces powdery pollen that may irritate the nose and eyes. It also contains calcium oxalate, which is toxic if ingested by pets or children.
African violet
These compact plants with velvety leaves and purple blooms are beautiful – but not ideal for allergy sufferers. Their fuzzy leaves trap dust and their flowers release pollen, potentially triggering asthma or other respiratory issues.
Poinsettia
A festive favourite, poinsettia contains a milky latex sap that can cause skin irritation, hives or eye discomfort. While severe reactions are rare, anyone with a latex allergy should handle it with care.
Madagascar dragon tree
This tall, architectural plant can trap dust in its leaves, which may trigger allergies. Its foliage also contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild skin irritation – gloves are recommended when handling.
Pygmy date palm
A slow-growing palm with elegant fronds, the pygmy date palm produces flowers that release large amounts of pollen. This can become especially irritating in spring and summer when the plant is in full bloom.
English ivy
Fast-growing and versatile, English ivy can climb, trail or cover surfaces. However, it contains compounds that can cause allergic contact dermatitis, resulting in itching or rash after skin contact.
Allergy-friendly alternatives
If you love greenery but suffer from allergies, opt for non-flowering plants or those with smooth, dust-resistant leaves. Good options include succulents, cacti, bamboo, pothos and certain dracaena varieties. These are less likely to release pollen or harbour dust, making them a safer choice for sensitive households.
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